Downtown Bishop Beautification Program

The Bishop Chamber of Commerce is launching the Bishop Beautification Grant Program, aimed at enhancing the façades of downtown Bishop and encouraging private investment in the historic district. This initiative is designed to improve the visual appeal of commercial properties, promote economic development, and preserve the architectural heritage of the community. The program seeks to create a more inviting public and pedestrian environment, improve building aesthetics, and stimulate economic growth through additional private investments. The primary objectives of the program include enhancing the public and pedestrian environment, improving the appearance of buildings, signage, and lighting to attract customers, preserving and restoring historic properties, and stimulating economic growth. The grant is intended for property owners and businesses located within the city limits of Bishop, California, and is focused on specific types of improvements that align with these goals. Eligible projects for funding include the removal of outdated materials such as signs or façades, restoration or installation of new façades that fit the building’s architectural style, architectural lighting to highlight façades and details, new canopies or awnings, business signs that are not solely for product advertisement, and painting. However, projects related to residential buildings or those that already have existing building permits or are under construction are not eligible for funding. The grant does not specify a size or total funding amount, and there is no matching requirement for applicants. This means that property owners and businesses can apply for funding without needing to provide additional financial contributions. The program is open to for-profit organizations, excluding small businesses, that meet the eligibility criteria. The application process and specific submission requirements have not been detailed in the available information. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the Bishop Chamber of Commerce website for further details and updates regarding the application process. The deadline for submitting applications is set for October 30, 2024. Evaluation criteria for the grant have not been explicitly outlined, but it can be inferred that projects will be assessed based on their alignment with the program's objectives and the potential impact on the downtown area. Important dates related to the grant, including the application deadline, are crucial for potential applicants to note as they prepare their submissions. Overall, the Bishop Beautification Grant Program represents an opportunity for property owners and businesses in Bishop to enhance their properties, contribute to the community's aesthetic appeal, and stimulate economic growth in the historic district.